Morocco, officially known as the Kingdom of Morocco, is a country in North Africa bordered by West Sahara to the south, Algeria to the east, and the Atlantic Ocean and Mediterranean Sea to the west and north, respectively. With a population of over 36 million people, a median age of 29.6 years, and an ethnic composition mainly comprising Arabs, Berbers, and mixed Arab-Berbers, Morocco is a vibrant nation with a unique blend of traditions and modernity.
Expat destinations in Morocco
Demographics of Morocco:
Ethnic groups
Arab: 59.4%
Berber: 40.5%
Mixed Arab-Berber: 0.1%
Languages
Arabic: Official (spoken by 53.8% as a first language)
Berber languages: Berber (Central Atlas Tamazight): 26.2%; Berber (Susi): 7.1%; Berber (Tachelhit): 2.2%; Berber (Rif Berber): 1.2%; Berber (Mzab): 0.3%; Berber (Tamazight): 0.3% (2012 estimate)
Religion Overview
Islam is the official religion of Morocco, practiced by approximately 99% of the population.
Major Religions
Climate
Morocco has a Mediterranean climate along its northern coast, transitioning to a desert climate in the southeast. The country enjoys mild, rainy winters and hot, dry summers.
Economy Overview
Morocco's economy has been steadily growing, with a GDP of $123.2 billion in 2021. Agriculture, commerce, industry, and services are vital sectors, coupled with a rising emerging market, attracting foreign investors. Key industries include textiles, tourism, mining, and banking.
Key Industries
- Textiles
- Tourism
- Mining
- Chemicals
- Banking and Finance
Major Companies
- Marrakesh Philips Automotive
- Mience
- Safim Royal
- Al Awir Cement Company
- Attijariwafa Bank
Culture and Language Overview
Morocco's rich and diverse culture is a blend of Berber, Arabic, and European, with Arabic serving as the standard language. Festivals and celebrations like Ramadan, Fes Festival of World Sacred Music, Imider Festival of Janoubia, and Sailing Race of the Atlantic are cultural highlights.
Cultural Highlights
- Ramadan
- Fes Festival of World Sacred Music
- Imider Festival of Janoubia
- Sailing Race of the Atlantic
Geography and Landmarks Overview
Morocco's topography ranges from coastal plains to rocky mountains and deserts in the southeast. Notable landmarks include the Atlas Mountains, Kasbahs, Souqs, and Atlantic Ocean beaches.
Notable Landmarks
- Atlas Mountains
- Djemaa el-Fna
- Bahia Palace
- Kenft Pass
- Chellah
- Ben Youssef Medersa
- Ait Benhaddou Kasbah
- Asilah
- Essaouira
- Alhambra in Granada (Spain)
National Holidays
- New Year's Day (January 1)
- Mother's Day (27 February)
- Independence Day (March 2)
- Labor Day (1 May)
- Ascension Day (varies)
- Corpus Christi (Thursday after Trinity Sunday)
- Entjeur Day (21 July)
- Assumption Day (15 August)
- Al-Mouloud (Ramadan 12)
- Eid Al-Adha (10-14 Dhu al-Hijjah)
- Green March Day (6 November)
- Al Hassan II's Birthday (7 July)
- Al Hassan II's Anniversary (July 30)
- Christmas (25 December)
Political Stability
Morocco is a constitutional monarchy, with King Mohammed VI serving as the head of state, head of government, and commander-in-chief of the armed forces, while the Prime Minister heads the Government. The nation has been noted for its relatively stable economy and political system.
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